Which ethical principle ensures that participants can leave the study at any time without consequence?

The principle that ensures participants can exit a study at any time without facing any negative effects is the right to withdraw. This ethical guideline is crucial in research involving human subjects, as it respects each participant's autonomy and freedom of choice throughout the study. It fosters an ethical environment in which participants feel safe and secure, knowing they have control over their participation.

This principle also helps researchers maintain ethical standards by safeguarding the participants' well-being. Even if a participant initially agrees to take part in a study, their circumstances or feelings may change, and they should always have the option to leave without any repercussions. This respect for individual choice is fundamental in psychological research, contributing to trust between researchers and participants.

Understanding the right to withdraw is essential in conducting ethical research, as it reinforces the importance of participant welfare over data collection.